Rites Held For Clarence Joseph Williams

Published 9:01 am Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Clarence Joseph Williams was born to Joseph and Marie Gaither Williams on April 23, 1934 in Gainesville, Florida. He departed this life at his home in Kenbridge on March 23, 2017. His parents, Joseph and Marie Williams, and sister, Inez Smith preceded him in death.

After an in-depth study of the Bible, Clarence dedicated his life to Jehovah God and was baptized along with his wife as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on January 28, 1961. He served loyally with the Long Branch, New Jersey congregation for over 30 years then retired to Asheville, North Carolina where he continued to serve for 16 years. Upon moving to Virginia in 2007, he continued his loyal service to Jehovah in the West Blackstone congregation until he fell asleep in death on Thursday, March 23, 2017.

Clarence was an outstanding father, family head and loving husband. His kind, compassionate nature drew people to him. Because of his love for Jehovah and his personal interest in others, many individuals were attracted to the truth and became servants of God. He preached to everyone. Who can forget his unmistakable baritone voice and hearty laugh.

We know his absence from us will only be a short one until the fulfillment of John 5:28, 29 when those who die in God’s memory will be resurrected. He actively advocated Jehovah’s kingdom and he looked forward to being an earthly subject of it. Clarence would encourage everyone to study God’s Word the Bible, to gain accurate knowledge, so that we all can gain Jehovah’s approval for everlasting life on a paradise earth (John 17:3).

He married Ida C. Johnson on July 8, 1955 and from that union was blessed with four children. In addition to his wife of 62 years and immediate family, he leaves to cherish his memory: his children Robert (Susie), Ronald (Silka) Colleen and Dinah, his sisters Elouise White, and Josie Hayes (Boyzie). Nieces: Janet Johnson (Archie), Kathy Hayes-Pace, and Monica Washington (Johnny). Nephews: William “Joey” White, Quinn Johnson, Shane Johnson (Jennifer), and Farrell Johnson. Honorary daughters: Lynn Garrett, Francine Armstead, Michele Roundtree, Robin Luis and Brenda “Lee” Randolph, as well as a host of spiritual sons, daughters and friends.

A memorial service was held Saturday, April 15 at Kingdom Hall Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3013 Cottage Road, Blackstone, VA 23824.

S.P. Jones & Son Funeral Home served the family.